THE Liverpool Phil celebrates the city's successful bid to be European Capital of Culture 2008, and the opening of its 2003-4 season of music, film, comedy and events with an open day this Sunday (21 September).

Packed with music and fun for all ages, it takes place in the superb art deco setting of the Philharmonic Hall in Hope Street between 11am-4pm.

Visitors can drop in throughout the day and enjoy music, films, talks, tours, exhibitions and workshops.

Events include four free concerts by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, members of the Orchestra will play at a Tea Dance in the Hall's light and airy Grand Foyer Bar, and screenings of all three Wallace and Gromit animated movies - A Grand Day Out, The Wrong Trousers and A Close Shave - will be shown on the unique, Walturdaw rising cinema screen.

The day ends with a chance to sing on the Philharmonic Hall stage.

Visitors are invited to join the Liverpool Philharmonic Community Choir led by Director Gareth Owen, for a super sing-along.

All events are free!

Details from the Phil box office, 0151-709 3789.

*>And the Philharmonic will be busy before then - de-stressing busy office workers with a series of free lunchtime classical music concerts at Bootle Town Hall.

The first concert takes place this Thursday from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, with the Light Fantastic String Quartet playing a programme of popular classics by composers including Mozart, Gershwin, Scott Joplin and Burt Bacharach.

Seating will be available for 300 on a first come, first served basis and refreshments will be available.

The other concerts are scheduled - same time, same place - on Thursday, October 16; Thursday, November 13, and Tuesday, December 16.

For further information visit www.visitsouthport.com or phone the events hotline on 01704 395511.